according to

preposition

1

: in conformity with

2

: as stated or attested by

3

: depending on

Examples of according to in a Sentence

According to rumors I've heard, he was fired for stealing from the company.

She always did everything according to the rules.

I cooked the rice according to the directions on the box.

He was paid according to how quickly he worked.

Recent Examples on the Web

In 2023 there were 75 pieces of legislation filed in 29 states, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. —Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 17 Mar. 2026

However, Michaud's lawyer and the prosecutor agreed to a summary of the facts in the case, according to the Banner. —Adam Thompson, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2026

Since 2000, 11 major hurricanes — Category 3 and above — have crossed over Cuba, according to the New York Times. —David Goodhue march 16, Miami Herald, 17 Mar. 2026

More than 1,300 people have been killed in Iran, according to the Iranian Red Crescent. —Arkansas Online, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English acordyng to, from acordyng "agreeing" (from present participle of accorden "to accord entry 1") + to to entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for according to

• hullabaloo
• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• bamboo
• beaucoup

Kids Definition

according to

preposition

1

: in agreement with

did everything according to the rules

2

: as stated by

according to the experts

3

: depending on

dress according to the weather